Abstract [en]

This book challenges the prevailing hydropolitics literature, which is biased in favour of international river basins where conflict is high, as this is inappropriate in Southern Africa. The point of departure is a new definition of hydropolitics as being a study of the authoritative allocation of values in society with respect to water. Emerging from this are two key elements - scale and range. In this regard, the new definition of hydropolitics incorporates all levels in society where values are allocated to water in an authoritative manner. Similarly, the complex and interconnected nature of water issues is reflected as the element of range. The book has 17 Chapters with a Foreword by Mr. Phera Ramoeli (SADC Water Sector Coordinator), and two special Messages by Mr. Mikhail Gorbachev (President of Green Cross International) and Minister Ronnie Kasrils (South African Minister of Water Affairs and Forestry). It is divided into five broad sections. Three of these deal with theoretical dimensions of hydropolitics, legal dimensions and selected studies of key issues showing both the range and scale aspects.